South Sudan’s U17 national team is preparing for its opening match against Sudan in the CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers – CECAFA Zone in Rwanda.
But before the Junior Bright Stars take to the pitch, Sports Hunter South Sudan has observed concerns around some of the basic equipment provided for the team’s preparations.
The players had to wait for training uniforms previously used by the South Sudan U20 national team during their participation in the CAF U20 AFCON Qualifiers in Tanzania before receiving the kit for their own training sessions.
Sports Hunter also observed that members of the technical staff did not receive their training uniforms until the final day before the team’s departure for Rwanda.
The footwear situation has raised another concern.
During South Sudan’s 4–3 victory over Dream Academy at Juba National Stadium before departure, some players appeared to struggle for grip, with players seen sliding on the playing surface. The same boots have since been seen during training sessions in Kigali.
With the Sudan opener approaching, Sports Hunter hopes to see the Young Bright Stars equipped with properly fitted boots and the necessary training equipment before their final training session ahead of the match.
This is not about luxury.
For young players representing South Sudan at a CAF qualifying tournament, proper footwear and adequate training equipment are basic elements of preparation.
The players have done their part by earning the opportunity to represent the country. Now, the focus should be on ensuring they have the tools to prepare and compete at their best.
Before the Sudan opener, the message is simple: let the boys have what they need to play their football.
